Chokwe Mwana Pwo Mask

The Mwana Pwo mask, one of the best known Chokwe mask, representing a female ancestor, symbolized the ideal mother and woman. It is believed to spread fertility wherever it is worn. (B.J. Bacquart 1998:188-9). It is performed by itinerant dancers who travel between different villages. The dancers are rewarded for the beneficent influence believed to follow their performances (Herreman 1993:82).